SCIENCE
SYLLABUSES
Lower Secondary
Express Course
Normal (Academic) Course
Implementation starting with
2021 Secondary One Cohort
© 2020 Curriculum Planning and Development Division.
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PREAMBLE
This Lower Secondary Science Syllabus is a continuation and further development of the
Primary Science Syllabus. It is also a bridge to, and a foundation for, the pursuit of scientific
studies at upper secondary levels. The syllabus has taken into consideration the desired
outcomes of education for our lower secondary students as well as the national education
emphasis.
This syllabus is based on the revised Science Curriculum Framework and emphasises the
need for a balance between the acquisition of Core Ideas, Practices, and Values, Ethics and
Attitudes in Science. In addition, as and when the topics lend themselves, the technological
applications, social implications and the value aspects of Science are also considered. It also
emphasises the broad coverage of fundamental concepts in the natural and physical world.
The aims spelt out in the syllabus provide the guiding principles for the suggested teaching
approaches and evaluation methods. Teachers are advised not to follow the syllabus too
rigidly but to exercise their professional judgement in implementing it. Schemes of work
should be developed with the interests and abilities of the students uppermost in mind.
Teachers are encouraged to use a variety of approaches in their teaching and to incorporate
ideas and materials from various sources in order to enhance the learning of Science.
Certain learning outcomes in the syllabus have been marked with an asterisk. These
learning outcomes are optional for the Normal (Academic) course students.
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CONTENTS
Page
1 INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................. 4
1.1
Science Curriculum Framework ............................................................. 5
1.2
21st Century Competencies and Scientific Literacy.............................. 10
1.3
Value and Aims of Lower Secondary Science E/N(A) ............................ 13
2 CONTENT ..................................................................................................... 14
2.1
Syllabus Framework............................................................................. 15
3 PEDAGOGY ................................................................................................... 20
3.1
Teaching and Learning of Science ........................................................ 20
3.2
Students as Inquirers ........................................................................... 20
3.3
Teachers as Facilitators........................................................................ 21
3.4 Using Authentic Contexts to Support the Teaching and Learning of
Science.......................................................................................................... 25
4 ASSESSMENT ................................................................................................ 26
4.1
Purposes of Assessment ...................................................................... 27
4.2
Obtaining Evidence of Learning ........................................................... 27
5 LEARNING OUTCOMES .................................................................................. 29
6 GLOSSARY OF TERMS .................................................................................... 57
7 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT .................................................................................. 59
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Section 1:
INTRODUCTION
Science Curriculum Framework
21 Century Competencies and Scientific Literacy
Value and Aims of Lower Secondary Science E/N(A)
st
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1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Science Curriculum Framework
The Science Curriculum Framework (Figure 1) encapsulates the thrust of science education in
Singapore to provide students with a strong foundation in Science for life, learning, citizenry and
work.
The tagline Science for Life and Society at the core of the curriculum framework captures the
essence of the goals of science education.
Figure 1: Science Curriculum Framework
Our science students are diverse, with different needs, interests and aptitudes for Science.
Given the diversity of our students and the needs of our country, the twin goals of science
education are:
•
To enthuse and nurture all students to be scientifically literate, which can help them
to make informed decisions and take responsible actions in their daily lives.
•
To provide strong science foundations for students to innovate and pursue STEM for
future learning and work.
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Surrounding the core of the framework are the three “IN”s, inspire, inquire and innovate,
which represent the vision of science education. It encapsulates the desired overall
experience of our students in science education:
• INspired by Science. Students enjoy learning Science and are fascinated by how
everyday phenomena have scientific connections and how Science helps solve many
of our global challenges. They regard Science as relevant and meaningful and
appreciate how Science and Technology have transformed the world and improved
our lives. A good number of students see Science-related careers as a viable profession
to serve the good of society.
•
INquire like scientists. Students have a strong foundation in Science and possess the
spirit of scientific inquiry. They are able to engage confidently in the Practices of
Science, grounded in the knowledge, issues and questions that relate to the roles
played by Science in daily life, society and the environment. They can discern, weigh
alternatives and evaluate claims and ideas critically, based on logical scientific
evidence and arguments, and yet are able to suspend judgement where there is lack
of evidence.
•
INnovate using Science. Students apply and experience the potential of Science to
generate creative solutions to solve real-world problems, ranging from those affecting
everyday lives to complex problems affecting humanity. A strong pipeline of students
can contribute towards STEM research, innovation and enterprise.
The outer ring represents the domains that make up the strong science fundamentals: Core
Ideas, Practices, and the Values, Ethics and Attitudes.
•
Core Ideas (CI) of Science. To make Science learning coherent and meaningful, the
Science curriculum is organised around Core Ideas (Figure 2), which are the distilled
ideas central to Science. The Core Ideas help students see the coherence and
conceptual links within and across the different sub-disciplines of Science (i.e. Biology,
Chemistry and Physics).
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Figure 2: Diagram representing the Core Ideas in the Science Curriculum Framework
Practices of Science serve to highlight that Science is more than the acquisition of a body of
knowledge; it is also a way of thinking and doing (Figure 3). The Practices of Science
represents the set of established procedures and practices associated with scientific inquiry,
what scientific knowledge is and how it is generated and established, as well as how Science
is applied in society (Section 1.2 21st Century Competencies and Scientific Literacy). In
particular, it is important to appreciate that the three components representing the
cognitive, epistemic and social aspects of the Practices are intricately related.
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Figure 3: Diagram representing the Practices of Science in the Science Curriculum Framework
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• Values, Ethics and Attitudes.
Although Science uses objective methods to arrive at evidence-based conclusions, it is
a human enterprise conducted in particular social contexts which involve a nuanced
consideration of values and ethics (Table 1). It is important for our students to be
aware of and appreciate the values and ethical implications of the application of
Science in society. Thus, science education needs to equip students with the ability to
articulate their ethical stance as they participate in discussions about socio-scientific
issues that involve ethical dilemmas, with no single right answers.
Curiosity
Creativity
Integrity
Objectivity
Openmindedness
Resilience
Responsibility
Healthy
Scepticism
Desiring to explore the environment and question what is found.
Seeking innovative and relevant ways to solve problems.
Handling and communicating data and information with complete
honesty.
Seeking data and information to validate observations and
explanations without bias.
Accepting all knowledge as tentative and suspending judgment.
Tolerance for ambiguity. Willingness to change views if the evidence is
convincing.
Not giving up on the pursuit for answers / solutions. Willingness to take
risks and embrace failure as part of the learning process.
Showing care and concern for living things and awareness of our
responsibility for the quality of the environment.
Questioning the observations, methods, processes and data, as well as
trying to review one’s own ideas.
Table 1: Diagram representing the Values, Ethics and Attitudes in the Science Curriculum
Framework
The pair of hands in the Science Curriculum Framework represents the roles of students as
inquirers in their learning and pursuit of science, supported by teachers and partners as
facilitators of the students’ learning experiences, to impart the excitement and value of
science to the students. The partnership of learning and teaching goes beyond the students
and teachers to include other partners who facilitate learning in various contexts to fuel
students’ sense of inquiry and innovation, to inspire them and to help them appreciate the
application of science in their daily lives, society and the environment.
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1.2
21st Century Competencies and Scientific Literacy
The Framework for 21st Century Competencies and Student Outcomes (Figure 4) helps guide
us to prepare our students to be confident people, self-directed learners, concerned citizens,
and active contributors - attributes we strive to develop in students to thrive in and contribute
to a fast-changing and globalised world of the 21st century.
Figure 4: Framework for 21st Century Competencies and Student Outcomes
This framework identifies the core values, social and emotional competencies, as well as
competencies necessary for the globalised world we live in. In totality, these are referred to
21st Century Competencies (21CC).
Supporting the Development of 21CC through Science
Science education plays an important role in helping our students understand and address
many of the local and global challenges we face in the 21st century. These challenges include
climate change, depletion of natural resources, disruptive innovations in technology (e.g.
artificial intelligence), and feeding an increasing population. To navigate these challenges, we
need to develop scientifically literate citizens who
•
possess mind-sets and practical knowledge of Science and its applications to make
informed decisions and responsible actions in their daily lives.
•
appreciate Science as humanity’s intellectual and cultural heritage, the beauty and
power of its ideas, as well as participate in socio-scientific issues ethically and in an
informed manner.
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•
are able to apply scientific knowledge and skills, as well as adopt scientific attitudes
and mind-sets to innovate and push new frontiers.
In this respect, the development of scientific literacy supports MOE’s efforts on the
development of students’ 21CC. As discussed in Section 1.1, the development of scientific
literacy is necessary to equip students with strong Science fundamentals in the three domains
of Core Ideas, Practices and Values, Ethics and Attitudes. The subsequent paragraphs illustrate
ideas on how 21CC can be developed through the Science curriculum.
Supporting the development of 21CC through Science
Civic Literacy, Global Awareness and Crosscultural Skills
For students to actively contribute to the community and nation, and develop an awareness
of and the ability to analyse global issues and trends, they could be given opportunities to
• explore how science and technology contribute to society, in Singapore and globally,
e.g. how applications of new scientific discoveries inspire technological advancements
and motivate scientists to ask new questions in their inquiry.
• work together with people from diverse backgrounds and engage with socio-scientific
issues. Students could participate in ethical discussions that require them to be openminded when weighing multiple perspectives and develop in them a sense of
responsibility for the environment.
Critical and Inventive Thinking
For students to generate novel ideas to address issues and solve problems, exercise sound
reasoning, use metacognition to make good decisions, and manage complexities and
ambiguities, they could be given opportunities to
•
engage in scientific inquiry set in authentic contexts, where possible. Students could
raise divergent questions about the natural world, develop multiple ways to observe
and collect evidence, and explore more than one explanation from their evidence. At
the same time, students should exercise healthy scepticism in questioning the
assumptions and uncertainties in their evidence and evaluate how these assumptions
could influence their explanations.
•
recognise that Science is an evidence-based, model-building enterprise to understand
the natural world through exploring how and why scientific models evolve over time
in light of new evidence.
Communication, Collaboration and Information Skills
For students to be able to communicate information and ideas clearly, collaborate effectively
and manage information thoughtfully and responsibly, they could be given opportunities to
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•
communicate their ideas clearly and persuasively using the language of Science.
Students could engage in activities that allow them to appreciate the need and
importance of having scientific standards and terminology.
•
understand how Science is presented in various forms (e.g. orally, written, visual) and
media (e.g. print media, social media) and evaluate the effect these forms of
communication have on the audience (e.g. honing the skill of students in identifying
fake news).
•
collaborate with other students in knowledge construction. Students should present
their work and ideas to others and have healthy discussions and critique.
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1.3
Value and Aims of Lower Secondary Science E/N(A)
1.3.1. Value of Lower Secondary Science E/N(A)
As Lower Secondary Science bridges Primary Science and Upper Secondary Science, Lower
Secondary Science education needs to help students obtain baseline scientific literacy for
basic citizenry (Section 1.2 21st Century Competencies and Scientific Literacy), and to equip
students with a strong foundation to support their further studies. LSS continues the General
Science emphasis of Primary Science before students pursue the disciplinary subjects of
Physics, Chemistry and Biology at upper levels. This approach in LSS supports students in
making connections across disciplines and solving interdisciplinary problems.
1.3.2. Aims of Lower Secondary Science E/N(A)
The aims of the Lower Secondary Science E/N(A) syllabuses are to:
a. cultivate students’ appreciation of Science as a collective human endeavour to
understand the natural world, and as a way of thinking rather than just a body of
facts.
This involves promoting awareness that the study and practice of science are cooperative and cumulative activities. These activities are subject to social, economic,
technological, ethical and cultural influences and limitations. In addition, the
applications of Science are generally beneficial but the abuse of scientific knowledge
can be detrimental.
b. inspire students to make informed decisions and take responsible actions in sciencerelated issues that concern their lives, the society and the environment.
This involves stimulating students’ curiosity, interest and enjoyment in Science and
matters relating to science and technology as well as developing their care for the
environment.
c. help students develop in fundamentals that are integral to scientific inquiry and
innovation, including problem-seeking and problem-solving.
These fundamentals include the (i) acquisition of core ideas, (ii) acquisition of the
practices of science, and (iii) development of values, ethics and attitudes relevant to
Science that would help students become confident citizens in a technological world.
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Section 2:
CONTENT
Syllabus Framework for
Lower Secondary Science E/N(A)
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2. CONTENT
2.1 Syllabus Framework
The Lower Secondary Science E/N(A) syllabuses comprise the Core Ideas, Practices of Science
as well as Values, Ethics and Attitudes that all students should acquire to develop scientific
literacy. The design of the syllabuses takes into account the time needed for the use of
engaging teaching and learning approaches, and the implementation of customised schoolbased programmes that meet the aims of the syllabuses. This enables teachers to make
learning more meaningful and enjoyable for students.
The features of the Lower Secondary Science E/N(A) syllabuses comprise:
a. Thematic Narrative
Guided by the Science Curriculum Framework, the LSS E/N(A) curriculum is underpinned by
five themes, which is aligned to the Primary Science Syllabus. These themes arise from Core
Ideas and Practices of Science and provide the foundational concepts that students need for
the disciplinary Sciences (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) at upper secondary. The five themes
in the LSS E/N(A) syllabuses are: Scientific Endeavour, Diversity, Models, Interactions and
Systems (Table 2).
Planned Curriculum 2
1. The Scientific Endeavour
Topics
Themes
Diversity
2.
3.
4.
Exploring Diversity of Matter by its Physical Properties
Exploring Diversity of Matter by its Chemical Composition
Exploring Diversity of Matter using Separation Techniques
Models
5.
6.
7.
8.
Ray Model of Light
Model of Cells - the Basic Unit of Life
Model of Matter - The Particulate Nature of Matter
Model of Matter - Atoms and Molecules
Interactions
9.
10.
11.
12.
Application of Forces and Transfer of Energy
Transfer of Heat Energy and its Effects
Chemical Changes
Interactions within Ecosystems
Systems
13.
14.
15.
16.
Electrical Systems
Human Digestive System
Transport Systems in Living Things
Human Sexual Reproductive System
Table 2: Overview of the Lower Secondary Science E/N(A) Syllabuses
The thematic narrative is supported by the contexts (Sustainability, Emerging Technologies,
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Climate Change and Science behind Healthcare) that reinforce the themes as well as the
activities which elaborate on how the themes are related to the Core Ideas and Practices of
Science. The thematic narrative consists of three components pertaining to: (1) what: which
describes the scope of the theme; (2) why: which provides the purpose for studying this
theme; and (3) how: which illustrates the learning experiences and contexts to the integrated
experience that students can immerse in (Figure 5).
Figure 5: Example of a Thematic Narrative in the Syllabus
b. Topic Descriptor
The topic descriptor (Figure 6) found after each topic title articulates the desired learning for
students and links the topic to its corresponding theme.
Figure 6: Example of a Topic Descriptor in the Syllabus
c. Key Inquiry Questions and Essential Takeaways
The thematic narrative is complemented by the Key Inquiry Questions and the Essential
Takeaways. The Key Inquiry Questions are used to cover the important ideas of the theme
(Figure 7). The Essential Takeaways clarify what students should know about the theme at
the end of all the topics in that theme (Figure 8).
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Although this component of the syllabus is organised into five themes, the content and
Essential Takeaways should not be viewed as compartmentalised blocks of knowledge.
In general, there are no clear boundaries among themes. There may be topics common to
different themes. Hence, a conscious effort is needed to demonstrate the relationship
between themes whenever possible.
Figure 7: Example of Key Inquiry Questions in the Syllabus
Figure 8: Examples of Essential Takeaways in the Syllabus
d. Learning Outcomes
The learning outcomes outline what we want our students to be able to do, as evidence of
their learning of Core Ideas, development of Practices, and cultivation of the Values, Ethics
and Attitudes.
The choice and scope of topics in the syllabus content are based on: (i) perspectives from
teachers on the themes and topics; (ii) a consideration of students’ prior knowledge from
Primary Science and requisite knowledge for Upper Secondary Science; (iii) the subject
matter of LSS as General Science; and (iv) an understanding of the milieu (e.g. the
development of scientific literacy for basic citizenry, an exposure to STEM learning, and
instilling a joy of learning, entrepreneurial dare and the Singapore Heartbeat).
The learning outcomes in the LSS E/N(A) syllabuses have been arranged in three columns,
namely “Core Ideas”, “Practices” and “Values, Ethics and Attitudes”.
The learning outcomes within the “Core Ideas” develop students’ understanding of the Core
Ideas of Science. The learning outcomes within the “Practices” column develop the ways of
thinking and doing in science and introduce students to the nature of science. The learning
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outcomes within the “Values, Ethics and Attitudes” column provide opportunities for
students to model scientific values, ethics or attitudes by leveraging real-world contexts
related to Science-Technology-Society-Environment (STSE) or stories that reflect the nature
of scientific knowledge.
The learning outcomes under the three columns of “Core Ideas”, “Practices” and “Values,
Ethics and Attitudes” are interrelated and together, represent a holistic understanding of
Science.
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Section 3:
PEDAGOGY
Students as Inquirers
Teachers as Facilitators
Using Authentic Contexts to Support the Teaching and Learning of LSS E/N(A)
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3. PEDAGOGY
1. 3.1 Teaching and Learning of Science
The starting point for the science curriculum is that every child wants to and can learn. Hence,
as part of our fraternity’s education philosophy, we embrace the belief that all children are
curious about and want to explore the things around them. The science curriculum leverages
and seeks to fuel this spirit of curiosity. To nurture students as inquirers, teachers are key in
facilitating a variety of learning experiences to support students in understanding Core Ideas,
developing Practices and cultivating Values, Ethics and Attitudes. These experiences can be
situated in authentic contexts in both formal and informal learning platforms. The
experiences should inspire students to inquire and innovate.
3.2
Students as Inquirers
To nurture students as inquirers, they can be provided with learning experiences centred on
authentic contexts that allow them to pose questions, be involved in discussions on socioscientific issues, or be engaged in problem solving. Through these learning experiences,
students are encouraged to:
• ask questions as they engage with an event, phenomenon, problem or issue. They ask
questions which they are interested to find out. These questions guide the design of
investigations, from which they draw valid conclusions.
• gather evidence to respond to their questions. They gather evidence through
observations and collect qualitative or quantitative data using simple equipment. After
the data collection, they present the evidence in appropriate forms (e.g. tables, charts,
graphs) to facilitate the analysis of patterns and relationships.
• formulate explanations based on the evidence gathered. They explain using their own
words, based on the evidence gathered (e.g. qualitative descriptions of observations
or quantitative data collected over a time interval).
• connect their explanations to various contexts. They explain how the concepts are
related or applied in various contexts around them. This helps them to appreciate how
Science is relevant in everyday life.
• communicate and justify their explanations. They communicate using various types of
representations. For example, they can use texts, drawings, charts, tables, graphs or a
combination
of
representations
to
support
their
explanations.
• reflect on their learning and progress. They can reflect on their learning (e.g., what
they have learnt, how they would like to improve, what they are curious about) in
different ways (e.g., ask questions, write journals). These reflections help them take
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greater ownership of their own learning and develop deeper conceptual
understanding.
•
Learning takes place individually and collaboratively, as students construct and coconstruct meaning from knowledge and experiences. In the learning of Science, students
should have opportunities to:learn with others. In understanding and applying concepts
and skills, students can be engaged in pair, group or whole class interactions. For example,
they can share with each other what they know about issues (e.g. climate change, air
pollution, feasible sustainable energy sources) in pairs, explore the issues using the
Internet in groups, and discuss their thoughts in a whole class setting.
•
learn using different resources. Students learn through various resources which
complement one another – an ‘ecology’ of resources. These resources include print
resources (e.g. textbooks, workbooks and experiments in practical books) and online
resources (e.g. lesson packages in the Singapore Student Learning Space (SLS)). They can
also make use of science manipulatives to aid in the learning of abstract concepts.
•
learn in various environments. Learning in environment outside classrooms help to
increase students’ motivation and interest by experiencing an authenticity that is not
possible to reach in a classroom. Students can observe and/or collect data to understand
their environment.
It is important to help students enjoy Science and value the importance of Science in the
natural and physical world. To Inquire, Innovate and be Inspired by Science, students would
benefit from a range of learning experiences that equip them to learn for life. In planning for
such a range of learning experiences, it is important to consider the:
• learning setting, which shifts between in-school and out-of-school contexts for structured
and unstructured learning; and
•
3.3
learning focus, which shifts between curriculum-based and interest-driven approaches
along the continuum.
Teachers as Facilitators
In the teaching and learning process, teachers play an important role in stimulating students’
curiosity, as well as encouraging students to see the value of Science and its applications in
their everyday lives.
To do these, teachers should ensure that the learning experiences provided for students go
beyond learning facts and outcomes of scientific investigations. Teachers should play the role
of facilitators to support students as inquirers.
As facilitators, teachers should:
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• provide students with opportunities to ask questions about events/ phenomenon/
problems/ issues that are related to their daily lives, society and environment;
• support students in gathering and using evidence;
• encourage students to formulate and communicate explanations based on evidence
gathered;
• encourage students to apply concepts learnt in understanding daily events/
phenomenon, finding solutions to problems/ issues and creating products; and
• check on students’ understanding to ascertain if learning has taken place and provide
appropriate and meaningful feedback to address students’ learning gaps.
The Pedagogical Practices in the STP, as shown in Figure 9, comprise four core Teaching
Processes which lie at the heart of good teaching. Teachers can refer to the Teaching
Processes and relevant Teaching Areas under each process to guide them in the design and
enactment of students’ learning experiences. To design student-centred learning
experiences, teachers will need to consider student profiles, readiness and needs as they
transit from primary to lower secondary, as well as understand the interest and aspirations
of these students as they progress to the next stage of studies and the future workplace.
Figure 9: Pedagogical Practices depicted in the Singapore Teaching Practice
Aligned to the Science Curriculum Framework and the Singapore Teaching Practice, are
instructional strategies to design meaningful learning experiences in various authentic
contexts. A brief description of each of these instructional strategies is provided in Figure 10.
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C
C
Brainstorming
Brainstorming is a strategy for
generating creative ideas and solutions.
Field Trip
A field trip is any learning activity
outside the school. It provides
opportunities for students to explore,
discover and experience science in
everyday life.
Case Study
The case study approach is a strategy
which uses real and hypothetical cases to
help students develop critical skills such
as
analysing,
inferring
and
communicating.
Games
Games engage students in play or
simulations for the learning of
concepts or skills. This is useful in
helping students to visualise or
illustrate objects or processes in the
real world.
Concept Cartoon
In concept cartoons, minimal language is
used. Visual images are utilised to
present concepts or questions relating to
one central idea or word.
i
Investigation
In scientific investigation, students
engage in activities that mirror how
scientists think and what they do in a
decision making process, such as
asking or posing questions and
planning or designing investigations.
Concept Mapping
Concept mapping is a strategy to present
meaningful
relationships
among
concepts. Concept maps are useful in
organising and linking concepts or ideas.
Learning Centres
Learning centres are various stations
at which individuals or groups of
students carry out selected activities.
The activities may be designed to
accommodate a variety of learning
styles
and
challenge
multiple
intelligences.
Cooperative Learning
In cooperative learning, activities are
structured such that each student
assumes certain responsibilities and
contributes to the completion of tasks. In
working with others, students are
exposed to different points of views and
solutions in accomplishing a common
goal.
Mind Mapping
A mind map radiates from a central
image or key word. The branches
connect related concepts and ideas to
the central image. Every word and
image is itself a potential sub-centre of
ideas or concepts. The visual
presentation of related information
enhances
understanding.
The
association would be to facts as well as
relationship between the facts.
Demonstration
Demonstration is commonly used to
scaffold the learning process. This is
recommended when the learning
activity is not safe or too complex for
students to set up on their own.
Model Building
Model building is an activity in which
students design and construct a
representation of a concept or an
object.
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Problem Solving
Problem solving engages students in
finding solutions to problems by
applying scientific knowledge and skills.
?
Projects
Projects are learning activities that
require students to find out about an
object, event, process or phenomenon
over a few weeks or even months.
Questioning
Questions are useful tools in the
scientific inquiry process. Both
teachers and students should engage
in cycles of questions-answersquestions throughout the learning
process.
Role Play, Drama, Dance and
Movement
Role play, drama, dance and
movement allow students to express
their understanding of scientific
concepts and processes in a creative
way.
Stories
Stories of Science in everyday life and
of scientists can capture students’
interest and engage them in talking
about Science. Either the teacher or
students can be the story creator or
teller.
Information Technology (IT)
Appropriate IT devices such as data
loggers and other hand-held devices can
also be used to enhance data collection
and speed up data analysis. Abstract
concepts in Science can also be made
more comprehensible with the use of
simulations, scenarios and animations in
the Student-Learning Space.
NE
National Education
National Education is infused into
the curriculum to allow students to
see how scientific phenomena and
developments can contribute to or
affect the nation.
Ethics and Attitudes
In scientific inquiry, the adoption of certain mental attitudes such as curiosity, creativity,
objectivity, integrity, open-mindedness, perseverance and responsibility is advocated. Students
can also discuss the ethical implications of science and technology.
Figure 10: Instructional strategies for Inquiry-based Teaching and Learning
In the teaching and learning of Science, teachers should use a mix and match of instructional
strategies. Each instructional strategy is not limited to a teaching process in STP. For example,
questioning is relevant in the four teaching processes, as illustrated below.
• Positive classroom culture: Teachers create a safe environment for students to ask
questions.
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• Lesson preparation: Teachers plan key questions that would encourage student
thinking and discussion.
• Lesson enactment: Teachers exercise flexibility in asking further questions to address
alternative conceptions or elicit alternative perspectives.
• Assessment and feedback: Teachers use students’ responses to identify alternative
conceptions or plan subsequent learning experiences.
3.4 Using Authentic Contexts to Support the Teaching and Learning of
Science
Four STEM-related global issues: ‘Sustainability’, ‘Climate Change’, ‘The Science Behind
Healthcare’, and ‘Emerging Technologies’ will be used as contexts to lend currency and
relevance to the themes in the LSS E/N(A) syllabuses. These issues are often encountered in
daily experiences or phenomena locally or globally. As students engage in these issues, they
gain appreciation of the interactions between Man and the environment as well as become
inspired to make positive changes through the applications of their scientific knowledge.
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Section 4:
ASSESSMENT
Purposes of Assessment
Obtaining Evidence of Learning
Guidelines for Assessment of Lower Secondary Science E/N(A)
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4. ASSESSMENT
4.1 Purposes of Assessment
Assessment is the process of gathering and analysing evidence about student learning to
make appropriate decisions and enhance learning. Assessment is integral to the teaching and
learning process. In designing assessments, we need to have clarity of purpose. Assessment
is the extent to which desired knowledge, skills and attitudes are attained by students. It
should produce both quantitative and qualitative descriptions of a learner’s progress and
development that can be analysed and used to provide feedback for improving future
practices.
• Assessment provides feedback to students, allows them to understand their strengths
and weaknesses. Through assessment, students can monitor their own performance
and progress. It also points them in the direction they should go to improve further.
• Assessment provides feedback to teachers, enables them to understand the strengths
and weaknesses of their students. It provides information about students’ attainment
of learning outcomes as well as the effectiveness of their teaching.
Assessment provides feedback to schools. The information gathered facilitates the
placement of students in the appropriate stream or course, and the promotion of
students from one level to the next. It can also help to inform the review of instructional
programs in schools
• Assessment provides feedback to parents. It allows them to monitor their children’s
learning attainment and progress through the information obtained.
4.2 Obtaining Evidence of Learning
The aims of the Lower Secondary Science Express / Normal Academic are the acquisition of
knowledge, understanding and application of science concepts, the ability to use process
skills, and the development of attitudes important to Science. The assessment objectives of
the syllabus are aligned to the three domains in the Science Curriculum Framework.
In an inquiry-based classroom, assessment can take many forms. In addition to written
assessments, teachers can also conduct performance-based assessments, which may include:
●
●
●
●
Debates
Drama / Show and Tell
Learning Trails
Model-making
●
●
●
●
Posters
Practical work
Projects
Reflections / Journals
The assessment modes listed above are by no means exhaustive. Adopting a variety of
assessment modes enables teachers to assess different aspects of teaching and learning.
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For meaningful assessment, teachers can use real-world contexts involving Science in daily
life, society and the environment as the starting point for the construction of assessment
tasks. This helps students to understand and appreciate the application of scientific
knowledge in real-life contexts.
Assessment should be conducted constantly during classroom instruction to support teaching
and learning. Information gathered from the assessment is used to adjust and improve the
teacher’s teaching practices, as well as surface students’ learning progress and difficulties.
To summarise how much or how well students have achieved at appropriate checkpoints of
a course of study, for example through mid-year and end-of-year examinations, assessment
should be designed to cover a representative sample of the syllabus, allowing students to
make connections across what they have learnt in the course of the two-year study. The
assessment content should well-represent the syllabus in terms of scope and relevance as
well as be pitched at the appropriate difficulty level.
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Section 5:
LEARNING OUTCOMES
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5. LEARNING OUTCOMES
A. THE SCIENTIFIC ENDEAVOUR
Theme: The Scientific Endeavour
What is “The Scientific Endeavour”?
The Scientific Endeavour helps us explore and understand the natural and
physical world. It involves the acquisition of scientific knowledge partly through
systematic observation, experimentation and analysis, and partly through human
imagination and creativity. This scientific knowledge is reliable and durable but
open to change in light of new evidence that is widely accepted within the
scientific community1.
Why is “The Scientific Endeavour” important?
Thematic Overview
It fosters the joy of learning Science by deepening the appreciation of the role of
Science in understanding everyday phenomena. By immersing in the practices and
applications of Science, we are empowered to inquire, make personal decisions,
and improve our lives. The application of scientific knowledge can have beneficial
or harmful consequences.
How does the Lower Secondary Science (LSS) curriculum bring out the essential
takeaways of “The Scientific Endeavour”?
“The Scientific Endeavour” sets the foundation in understanding the topics in LSS.
The study of the themes in LSS will reinforce the Core Ideas; Practices of Science;
Values, Ethics, and Attitudes that characterise Scientific Endeavour.
1
This is relevant to the Nature of Scientific Knowledge which is included under Practices of Science
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Key Inquiry Questions in the Scientific
Endeavour include:
●
Why did this issue, event or
phenomenon happen?
●
What is Science?
●
How does Science affect our lives?
Essential Takeaways
SE 1: Science is a study of
the natural phenomena
in the world.
Learning Outcomes
●
●
●
●
●
SE 2: Scientific knowledge
is derived from cycles of
systematic observation,
experimentation and
analysis and from human
imagination and
creativity. Scientific
knowledge is subject to
change.
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
SE 3: Applications of
Scientific knowledge can
bring about beneficial or
harmful consequences.
●
●
●
●
show an awareness that Science is not confined to the laboratory, but is manifested in all aspects of our lives
show a healthy curiosity about the natural phenomena in the world
show an appreciation of Science being a human endeavour, with scientific knowledge contributed by different civilisations
over the centuries
recognise that scientific evidence can be quantitative or qualitative, and can be gathered through one’s senses or
instruments as extensions of one’s senses
show an understanding of how scientific knowledge is built from systematic collection, and analyses of evidence and
rigorous reasoning based on the evidence
show an awareness that scientific evidence is subject to multiple interpretations
use scientific inquiry skills such as posing questions, planning, and carrying out investigations, evaluating experimental
results and communicating findings (Estimation and measurement skills, knowledge of SI units, and using appropriate units
for the respective physical quantities, should be infused into the respective topics)
show an understanding that accuracy refers to the closeness of agreement between a measured value and the true value of
what is being measured
show an understanding that precision of measurement refers to the closeness of agreement between measured values
obtained by repeated measurements
identify zero errors as the condition where the measuring instrument registers a reading when there should not be any
reading
identify parallax error as an error in reading an instrument as a result of not viewing the measurement scale from the
correct position
*show an understanding that measurement errors may exist due to errors that are either unpredictable (e.g., human error)
and / or consistent (e.g., zero error of instrument)
show attitudes such as creativity, objectivity, integrity, open-mindedness, and perseverance in carrying out scientific inquiry
demonstrate safety consciousness and adopt safe practices when carrying out investigations
discuss the beneficial and harmful consequences of scientific and technological applications to society
relate applications of Science to some social and ethical issues
state some current limitations of science and technology in solving societal problems
recognise the need to be responsible towards society and the environment in using technology and scientific knowledge
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B. DIVERSITY
Key Inquiry Questions in Diversity
include:
Theme: Diversity
What is “Diversity”?
There is a great variety of living and non-living things in the world. Classification helps us better understand the
diversity of things in the world. Knowledge about the diversity of living and non-living things is reliable and
durable. In light of new evidence that arises from technological advancements, this knowledge is open to change.
●
●
Why is the study of “Diversity” important?
In Science, we make sense of the complexity in the diversity of things in the world by organising them based on the
common characteristics. This helps us understand and appreciate the similarities and uniqueness in things.
However, some phenomena may not fit neatly into pre-determined categories. In cases of such exceptions, critical
debate within the scientific community helps to make a considered judgment, guided by a set of established
procedures and practices. Hence, we are able to understand the world around us better and, in turn, are inspired
and empowered to improve life
●
●
●
Using the real-life context of sustainable living, students will appreciate and distinguish among the
different physical properties and chemical composition of materials. They will then apply their
understanding of materials through the use of various separation techniques.
●
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How do we classify things in our
world?
How do we find out the properties
and characteristics of things around
us?
Essential Takeaways:
How is an integrative experience for the theme like?
Building on what students learnt about the diversity of things in Primary Science, they will learn about
the need to identify criteria for the different forms of matter.
How does the diversity of things
contribute to our lives?
The diversity of the rich resources
in the natural world is important for
the continual survival of living
things.
We have to use nature’s resources
responsibly and sustainably, e.g.,
applying the 3Rs (reduce, reuse,
recycle).
We continually seek to understand
the complexity in the natural world
by studying it in a systematic
manner.
2. Exploring Diversity of Matter by its Physical Properties
Students will explore and learn about the different physical properties of materials. They learn to identify criteria for distinguishing characteristics that help
them understand the world. This will also enable them to make informed decisions on the appropriate use of materials for everyday products/situations to
increase efficiency, safety and sustainability.
●
●
Core Ideas
describe physical properties that can be
observed or measured, e.g.,
- electrical conductivity
- thermal conductivity
- melting/ boiling point
- *strength
- *hardness
- *flexibility
- density
show an understanding of how mass and
volume affect density
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
Learning Outcomes
Practices
classify a number of common everyday objects
and recognise that there are many ways of
classifying the same group of objects
evaluate the usage of different materials using
data of their physical properties
communicate findings on classification and
justify reasons
estimate length, mass and volume
measure accurately length, mass and volume
(including mass and volume of liquids and solids
but not of gases) of matter using appropriate
instruments (measuring tape, metre rule, digital
calipers, measuring cylinder, electronic balance)
and methods.
*apply concepts of volume displacement to
derive the volume of irregular objects
predict whether an object will sink or float by
comparing its density with that of its
surrounding medium
calculate density using the formula (density =
mass/volume) and use the appropriate unit
(e.g., g/cm3 or kg/m3)
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●
●
Values, Ethics, and Attitudes
show an awareness of the importance of
making informed choices of the appropriate
and sustainable use of materials for household
products (e.g., fibre, plastics, ceramics, metals
and glass) based on their physical properties,
(e.g., demonstrate curiosity about the physical
properties of things commonly encountered in
daily life)
show an appreciation of how reducing the use
of non-sustainable materials by using
alternative materials with similar properties
helps to minimise environmental impact
3. Exploring Diversity of Matter by its Chemical Composition
Students will make inferences on the behaviours and characteristics of the variety of matter that are encountered in daily life, as they inquire into the chemical
composition of matter. This helps them further classify matter beyond physical properties and enables them to make informed decisions about the appropriate
use of matter, based on their chemical composition.
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
Core Ideas
state that elements are the basic building
blocks of living and non-living matter
recognise that there are different types of
elements represented in the Periodic Table of
Elements, e.g., metals and non-metals
●
●
Learning Outcomes
Practices
classify matter as elements, compounds and
mixtures based on their chemical composition
●
investigate the factors that affect the rate of
dissolving and *solubility of substances
●
show an understanding that compounds are
substances consisting of two or more
chemically combined elements
show an understanding that compounds have
different characteristics from their constituent
elements
show an understanding that mixtures are made
up of two or more elements and/or compounds
that are not chemically combined
show an understanding that mixtures display
characteristics of their constituents
distinguish between solute, solvent and
solution
show an understanding that solutions and
suspensions are mixtures
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Values, Ethics, and Attitudes
show an appreciation of how recycling and
reuse of precious materials can be facilitated by
the classification of waste products based on
their chemical composition
show an awareness of the importance of
knowing the chemical composition of everyday
items and how it can be beneficial (e.g.,
melamine used for making plastic containers) or
harmful (e.g., melamine in milk powder)
●
distinguish between elements, compounds and
mixtures
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4. Exploring Diversity of Matter using Separation Techniques
Students will apply their understanding of the diversity in the physical properties and chemical composition of matter to decide on the appropriate separation
techniques in order to obtain different constituents to aid in reusing and recycling resources.
●
Core Ideas
explain how the constituents of a mixture can
be separated based on their properties, using
the following techniques:
●
Learning Outcomes
Practices
investigate the separation of constituents of
mixtures based on basic principles involved in
the following separation techniques:
●
●
●
- magnetic attraction,
-
magnetic attraction,
- filtration,
-
filtration,
- evaporation,
-
evaporation,
- distillation,
-
distillation,
- paper chromatography
-
paper chromatography
state some examples of the applications of the
various separation techniques in everyday life
and industries e.g., water treatment (i.e.
distillation or *reverse osmosis of sea water in
desalination plants, and filtration and *reverse
osmosis of treated used water), food safety and
waste management
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Values, Ethics, and Attitudes
show an appreciation of why water is a precious
resource and the need to conserve it
show an appreciation of how Singapore uses
separation techniques to ensure a sustainable
source of potable water
C. MODELS
Key Inquiry questions in Models
include:
Theme: Models
What is “Models”?
Models are physical, conceptual or mathematical representations of phenomena. As models are approximations of
actual phenomena, they are inherently inexact and can be improved upon.
●
●
Why is the study of “Models” important?
Processes and structures in the world can be abstract or invisible to the naked eye. As they cannot be observed
directly, we can construct models as representations to understand the world. These models are developed or
modified based on evidence. They can help us develop explanations and make reasonable predictions of the
phenomena. Models of phenomena change as Man improves his understanding of phenomena, due to technological
advancements and the discovery of new evidence. The new knowledge contributes to advancement in science and
technology, which in turn has the propensity to improve life around us.
How is an integrative experience for the theme like?
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How do we know that the models
used are appropriate
representations of the real
phenomena?
Essential Takeaways:
●
●
Students will be introduced to the role of scientific models to represent things that are abstract (e.g., the
ray model of light and the particulate nature of matter), or invisible to the naked eye (e.g., model of
cells; models of atoms and molecules). Students will get a chance to see how the practice of using and
constructing models in the topics they learn today relate to emerging technology and appreciate the
uses and benefits of technology. Furthermore, students will use these models to investigate possibility
of supporting life on Mars and learn about the usefulness and limitations of models.
Why is the construction and use of
models important?
●
Models are simplified
representations of phenomena that
provide a physical, conceptual or
mathematical perception of reality.
Models are constructed to explain
phenomena.
Models can be used to make
predictions.
5: Ray Model of Light
Students will learn how the ray model of light is used to represent the pathway of light rays and use this model to learn about reflection, refraction and their
applications in daily life.
●
●
●
●
●
●
Core Ideas
show an understanding that the ray model
represents the path taken by light
describe the effects and uses of reflecting
surfaces (e.g., plane and curved)
explain how reflection is affected by a smooth
and rough surface using the ray model of light
●
●
Learning Outcomes
Practices
investigate the characteristics of the image
formed by a plane mirror
●
*investigate that the angle of reflection is equal
to the angle of incidence, with respect to the
normal
●
*show an understanding that the change in the
speed of light in different mediums can cause
refraction (calculation of angles not required)
*describe some effects of refraction
*describe the dispersion of white light by a
prism using the ray model of light
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Values, Ethics, and Attitudes
show an awareness that EM radiation (e.g.,
infrared, ultraviolet and light) has both
beneficial and harmful effects. (Note:
abbreviation, “EM”, suffice; spelling of the full
word “electromagnetic” is not required)
show an awareness about the impact of light
produced by technology, on society and
environment (e.g., city lights can improve night
visibility but cause light pollution, disorientation
of birds and use up a lot of electrical energy)
6: Model of Cells – the Basic Unit of Life
Students will learn about a typical plant cell and a typical animal cell as models and how this knowledge can be used to predict behaviours and functions of cells.
●
●
●
●
Core Ideas
show an understanding of the functions of the
different parts of a typical cell, including the
nucleus which contains genetic material (DNA)
that can be passed down to the next
generation.
(Note: the abbreviation DNA will suffice;
spelling of the full word and structure of DNA
is not required)
show an understanding that typical plant and
animal cells are models used to represent their
various forms
recognise that in multicellular organisms (e.g.,
plants and animals), cells are the basic building
blocks that are organised into tissues, organs
and systems
●
●
Learning Outcomes
Practices
identify, *using the microscope safely and
correctly, the different parts of a typical cell
(plant or animal):
-
cell wall
-
cell membrane
-
cytoplasm
-
nucleus
-
vacuole
-
chloroplast
infer whether an organism is an animal or a
plant, based on its cell structures
*explain the significance of the division of
labour even at the cellular level
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●
Values, Ethics, and Attitudes
show an appreciation for the relationship
between advances in technology and
knowledge-building, e.g., the development of
the microscope
7: Model of Matter – The Particulate Nature of Matter
Students will use the particulate nature of matter as a model to explain the properties of the different states of matter and their behaviours upon heating or
cooling. The understanding of the particulate nature of matter as a model will help students better appreciate phenomena like diffusion.
●
Core Ideas
show an awareness of the particulate nature of
matter being a model representing matter that
is made up of small discrete particles in
constant and random motion
●
●
●
●
describe the arrangement and movement of
the particles in matter in the solid, liquid and
gaseous states, using the particulate nature of
matter
Learning Outcomes
Practices
explain expansion and contraction, and the
conservation of mass during these processes,
using models
*explain melting and boiling in terms of
conversion of the three states of matter, using
models
show an understanding that diffusion is the net
movement of particles from a region of higher
concentration (i.e., more solute particles per
unit volume of the solution) to a region of lower
concentration (i.e., fewer solute particles per
unit volume of the solution)
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●
Values, Ethics, and Attitudes
show an appreciation of scientific attitudes such
as creativity and open-mindedness in creating
models to explain the fundamental nature of
things and the willingness to re-examine
existing models e.g., attitudes required to
derive the particulate nature of matter
(Brownian Motion)
8: Model of Matter – Atoms and Molecules
Students will be introduced to the world of atoms and molecules. The atomic model facilitates the understanding of atomic structure which cannot be observed
with the naked eye.
●
●
●
●
●
Core Ideas
describe an atom as an entity that is electrically
neutral and is made up of a positively charged
nucleus (protons and neutrons) with negatively
charged electrons moving around the nucleus
●
●
Learning Outcomes
Practices
compare the size of an atom with the sizes of
everyday objects
●
compare atoms and molecules
*recognise that atoms have mass that is mainly
contributed by the mass of the nucleus
●
show an awareness that the atoms of an
element have a unique number of protons
show an understanding that a molecule is a
group of two or more atoms that are chemically
combined
state the numbers and types of atoms, given
the chemical symbol of an element or the
chemical formula of a compound, e.g., carbon
dioxide (Note: Writing of chemical formulae is
not required. Giant molecular compounds are
also not required.)
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Values, Ethics, and Attitudes
*show an appreciation of how, in practice,
models are constructed, justified and
continuously revised as they are used to probe
new phenomena and collect additional data
(e.g., the various atomic models)
show an awareness that technologies resulting
from the knowledge of atoms have created
social and ethical issues, risks and costs (e.g.,
atomic bombs)
D. INTERACTIONS
Key Inquiry Questions in Interactions
include:
Theme: Interactions
What is “Interactions”?
Interactions in Science refer to the relationships among the different forms of matter and the effect they have on
each other. Changes as a result of interactions are brought about by the transfer of energy between matter. These
may lead to changes in motion, which can be fast or slow as well as changes in conditions, which can be big or
small, reversible or irreversible. Such interactions may increase or decrease the stability within a system.
●
●
Why is the study of “Interactions” important?
Analysis of interactions can reveal patterns in nature that help us to predict how changes in one factor affect other
factors in a system or among systems. This knowledge helps us to design solutions and make more informed
decisions in our daily lives as there are risks and benefits associated with the applications of Science in society.
How is an integrative experience for the theme like?
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What are the examples of interactions
between physical phenomena and life
processes?
Essential Takeaways:
●
Students will learn about how interactions with our environment (e.g., combustion of fuel may relate to
climate change). Such changes in the environment, in turn, may intensify natural disasters (a context
which comprises the application of forces) and cause chemical changes which can affect the ecosystem.
They will also appreciate that all these changes are brought about by the transfer of energy, as a result
of interactions. This helps students to appreciate how Singapore is adapting to cope with climate change
and explore how we, as individuals can do our part to mitigate climate change.
How does knowledge of interactions
between and within systems help us
better understand and improve our
environment?
●
●
Interactions usually involve the transfer
of energy which can cause changes in
motion and/or conditions.
Our interactions with the world can lead
to changes or influence the stability of a
system. Thus, we must make
responsible choices in our daily lives.
Our interactions with the environment
drive the development of science and
technology. At the same time, science
and technology influences the way we
interact with the environment.
9: Application of Forces and Transfer of Energy
Students will discover the effects of forces in the interactions that they encounter in their everyday lives, bringing about transfer of energy. They will also learn
how choices of energy sources affect the environment.
●
●
Core Ideas
show an understanding that a force can be a
contact force (e.g., friction) or non-contact
force, (e.g., magnetic force, gravitational force)
recognise that the interactions between two or
more objects, result in a transfer of energy
which can/may cause changes (by application of
force) to the
●
Learning Outcomes
Practices
measure force, using newton as the SI unit
●
compare weight and mass
●
●
*investigate pressure using the formula,
pressure = force/area
infer that energy can be converted from one
form to another
- state of rest or motion of an object
- turning effects in objects (e.g., spanners,
levers to open tins)
- size and/or shape of an object
- pressure on objects
●
*show an appreciation of some daily life
phenomena associated with
- pressure (e.g., high-heeled shoes, cutting
edge of a knife),
- atmospheric pressure (e.g., use of suction
cups, drinking from straws), and
- pressure due to liquid (e.g., submarines
have depth limits)
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●
●
Values, Ethics, and Attitudes
show curiosity about the destructive power of
forces in nature (e.g., earthquakes, tsunamis,
volcanic eruptions, tropical cyclones)
show an appreciation of the uses of various
sources of energy (e.g., fossil fuels, solar, hydroelectric, wind energy, geothermal energy,
biofuels and nuclear energy) and their impact
on the environment
●
●
●
state the SI unit of *work and energy as the
joule
*identify that work is done is an example of
energy transfer that occurs when an object
moves in the direction of a force
recognise that energy cannot be created nor
destroyed, it is conserved when it is transferred
(from one object to another) and/or converted
(from one form to another)
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10: Transfer of Heat Energy and its Effects
Students will learn about how the transfer of heat energy occurs, the changes that are brought about by the transfer of heat energy as well as the applications of
such effects of heat transfer in our daily lives.
●
●
●
●
●
●
Core Ideas
state that the SI unit of temperature is kelvin
(K)
describe some effects and applications of
expansion and contraction in everyday life
●
●
explain the transfer of heat energy through
conduction, convection, and radiation
show an understanding that the rate of heat
energy loss or gain by a body through radiation
is affected by the
(i)
colour and texture of the surface
(ii)
surface temperature
●
Learning Outcomes
Practices
infer that generally, solids, liquids, and gases
expand when heat energy is absorbed and
contract when heat energy is given out
infer that thermal expansion results in a change
in volume, and therefore the density of the
substance
infer from experiments that different materials
have different rates of heat energy transfer
explain applications of transfer of heat energy
through conduction and convection (e.g., in
cooling, heating and insulation)
explain applications of transfer of heat energy
through radiation (e.g., radiant heaters, solar
radiation)
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OFFICIAL (OPEN) \ NON-SENSITIVE
●
Values, Ethics, and Attitudes
show an awareness of the various proposed
causes (man-made and natural) of climate
change (e.g., global warming)
11. Chemical Changes
Students will explore the chemical changes that matter can undergo when interacting with each other. They will also learn how chemical reactions can be
beneficial and harmful to our daily lives and the environment.
●
●
●
●
●
Core Ideas
identify a change that leads to the formation of
new substance(s) as a chemical change
●
use word equations to represent chemical
reactions (Note: Chemical equations are not
required)
recognise that chemical reactions involve a
rearrangement of atoms which are not created
or destroyed
recognise that mass is conserved during a
chemical reaction
show an awareness that there are different
types of chemical changes such as combustion,
thermal decomposition, oxidation (e.g., rusting
and cellular respiration) and neutralisation
●
●
Learning Outcomes
Practices
investigate the chemical reactions between:
-
acids and alkalis;
-
*acids and metals; and
-
*acids and carbonates
investigate the effect of acidic, alkaline and
neutral solutions on indicators (include litmus
paper, Universal Indicator and natural
indicators obtained from plants)
investigate the chemical changes that matter
(i.e., element, compound or mixture) undergoes
upon:
- mixing (e.g., neutralisation)
- heating (e.g., thermal decomposition)
- exposure to light (e.g., photosynthesis)
- interacting with oxygen (e.g., rusting and
cellular respiration)
- *using an electric current (e.g.,
electroplating)
(Note: Electroplating is stated as an example
which may be used for students to observe
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●
Values, Ethics, and Attitudes
show an awareness of how chemical reactions
can benefit our lives (e.g., cooking, respiration)
and cause harm to our health and environment
(e.g., rusting, decay, burning)
visual changes. Knowledge of the anode,
cathode and reactivity series of metals are not
required.)
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12: Interactions within Ecosystems
Students will explore the interaction of living things with both the biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) factors in the ecosystem. They will also learn about how
climate change can affect ecosystems and what we can do to maintain biodiversity.
●
●
●
●
●
●
Core Ideas
explain the importance of conserving the
environment
explain the importance of various physical
factors such as air, water, temperature, light,
minerals and acidity/alkalinity to the survival of
organisms
●
Learning Outcomes
Practices
*investigate an environment using measuring
instruments such as the data-logger and probes
to collect data on physical factors such as pH,
temperature and light intensity
●
●
recognise how adaptive traits (structural and
behavioural) and changes in environmental
conditions can affect the survival of organisms
show an understanding of an ecosystem as the
interactions between a community and its
physical environment
show an understanding of the interrelationships
between various organisms in a community
(e.g., predator-prey relationship, mutualism and
parasitism)
show an understanding that energy flows
through food chains and food webs and how
processes such as photosynthesis and
respiration are involved.
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Values, Ethics, and Attitudes
evaluate the impact of human activities and
technology on the environment (e.g., motor
vehicles and modern lifestyle)
*show an awareness of how some cultures
practise sustainable living through their
interactions with the environment
●
*describe how nutrients in organisms are
recycled within the environment through the
action of decomposers
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E. SYSTEMS
Theme: Systems
Key Inquiry Questions in Systems
include:
What is “Systems”?
A system is defined by placing boundaries around inter-related entities. The behaviours and functions of systems
can be understood through observation and measurement. This knowledge about a system is supported by the
assumption that processes and structures in systems behave in a consistent manner.
●
●
Why is the study of “Systems” important?
●
Any change to a part of the system could affect the rest of the system to different extents. That is, a part of the
system may not work (well) if another part is missing or not working (well). Conversely, when the parts are put
together, they can perform functions that cannot be carried out by individual parts. By conducting scientific
investigations, we can construct and test explanations to discover how parts of a system affect one another and
learn about the structures and functions of these parts. This also allows us to develop and test solutions for
problems in natural systems.
How do parts of a system or different
systems work together to perform a
function?
How could parts of a system affect the
function of other parts?
How may a system be affected when a
part or parts of the system do not
behave in a consistent manner and
what can be done to make these parts
behave in a consistent manner?
Essential Takeaways:
●
How is an integrative experience for the theme like?
Students will explore how the different components in the digestive, transport and sexual reproductive
systems in humans work together. In cases of disruption of the systems, diseases like diabetes, heart
attack or infertility may occur. Through exploring electrical systems, students will also consider the
impact of science and technology on helping to detect, treat or alleviate the symptoms of such diseases.
In the process, students will gain deeper insights into how lifestyle choices can affect their health.
●
●
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A system is a whole consisting of parts
that work together to perform a
function.
Each part of a system performs a
specific function that contributes to
the function of the system.
The functions of a system may be
disrupted if a part or parts of the
system do not function well.
13: Electrical Systems
Students will explore man-made electrical systems and appreciate the electrical components that make up an electrical system.
Core Ideas
●
●
●
describe current, potential difference, and
resistance of an electrical system, stating their
SI units
describe the applications of chemical, heating
and magnetic effects of an electric current
●
●
explain what is meant by power, relate it to an
output of an electrical system, stating its SI unit
●
●
●
state how changes made to an electrical system
can cause some electrical hazards
state some precautionary measures to ensure
the safe use of electricity in the home
●
Learning Outcomes
Practices
draw and interpret circuit diagrams and set up
circuits containing electrical sources, switches,
lamps, resistors (fixed and variable), ammeters
and voltmeters
*investigate the effect of varying resistance on
the current in the circuit using fixed or variable
resistors (Note: formula V=IR is not required)
*investigate how series or parallel arrangement
of fixed resistors affects the current as an
output of the system
*calculate the cost of using electrical
appliances, using kilowatt-hour as a unit of
electrical energy consumption
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•
Values, Ethics, and Attitudes
show an awareness of ways to reduce
consumption of electrical energy in our
households
14. Human Digestive System
Students learn about the primary role and function of the human digestive system. They will understand how different parts of the system work together to
carry out digestion. They will explore how the malfunction of one part affects the system and learn how the end-products of the human digestive system are
used for life processes.
●
●
●
●
Core Ideas
explain the importance of the digestive system
explain how the main parts of the human
digestive system work together to perform a
function (e.g., mouth, gullet, stomach, small
intestine, large intestine, rectum and anus)
●
Learning Outcomes
Practices
*investigate the effect of enzymes in digestion
(Note: Only classes of enzymes such as
carbohydrases, proteases and lipases are
needed. Specific names of enzymes are not
required.)
describe how a human digestive system helps in
the digestion of food
*state that the end-products of digestion are
used for cellular processes like respiration,
growth and tissue repair
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●
●
Values, Ethics, and Attitudes
show an appreciation of the importance of
sensible food and lifestyle choices in the fight
against diabetes
show an awareness that bacteria could have
beneficial or harmful effects (e.g., bacteria in
the digestive tract could help in digestion or
cause infections)
15. Transport Systems in Living Things
Students learn about the primary roles and functions of the transport systems in plants and human beings. They will understand how different parts of the
transport system work together to perform its function. Students then go on to explore how the malfunction of one part affects the transport system.
Learning Outcomes
●
Core Ideas
describe the functions of blood vessels in
relation to the transport system in humans:
●
Practices
*infer from investigation that the xylem
transports water and mineral salts
●
- arteries (carry blood away from the heart),
●
- veins (carry blood towards the heart) and
- capillaries (the site of exchange of
substances)
(Note: Structures of the blood vessels and the
heart are not required)
●
●
●
*show an understanding that xylem transports
water and mineral salts from the roots to the
other parts of the plant while the phloem
transport food from the leaves to other parts of
the plant
*explain the need for a transport system in
multi-cellular organisms
explain how diffusion facilitates the transport of
substances in humans (e.g., diffusion of
digested food and oxygen from blood to
tissues)
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Values, Ethics, and Attitudes
show an awareness that the abuse of drugs has
detrimental effects on many systems in
humans, including the transport system
show awareness of the ethical issues relating to
heart transplant (e.g., donor consent and
priority for allocation)
●
●
explain how diffusion facilitates the transport of
substances in plants (e.g., diffusion of gases and
mineral salts into and out of plant cells)
*state that osmosis facilitates the absorption of
water at the roots
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16. Human Sexual Reproductive System
Students learn about the primary role and function of the human sexual reproductive system is for reproduction. They will understand how different parts of the
reproductive system work together to perform its function. They also explore how the disruption of one part affects the function of the system.
●
Core Ideas
recognise that the union of the nuclei of an egg
and a sperm (inputs of a system) forms a
fertilised egg which develops into a new
individual (output of a system)
●
Learning Outcomes
Practices
evaluate the consequences and issues relating
to abortion and pre-marital sex
●
●
●
●
●
recognise that the sexual reproductive system
facilitates heredity (the passing down of genetic
material from one generation to the next)
*recognise that a new individual formed
through sexual reproduction receives a unique
combination of genetic information from the
mother (via the egg) and the father (via the
sperm), resulting in similarities and differences
between individuals and their parents, as well
as among siblings
state some of the physical changes that occur
during puberty and early adolescence as a
result of the effect of hormones on other
systems
(Note: Details of the hormonal system are not
required)
●
describe briefly how the parts of the human
male and female reproductive systems are
involved in fertilisation
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Values, Ethics, and Attitudes
show an awareness that drug abuse (e.g.,
smoking, alcohol consumption and substance
abuse) can have negative effects on the foetus
*suggest reasons for the world’s growing
human population (e.g., advances in medicine,
improved sanitation)
●
●
●
●
describe how parts of the female reproductive
system are involved in the menstrual cycle
outline how temporary and permanent birth
control methods prevent conception by
disrupting certain processes and/or the
functions of certain organs in the reproductive
system
state the harmful consequences of sexually
transmitted infections (STIs) like syphilis,
gonorrhoea and AIDS
state that some bacterial STIs can be cured by
antibiotics, but not viral STIs
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Section 6:
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
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6. GLOSSARY OF TERMS
This glossary serves as a guide for interpreting learning outcomes that are stated in this syllabus.
S/No
Term
Description of Terms
1
calculate
2
classify
to give a numerical answer, where, in general working should be shown (especially
when two or more steps are involved)
to group things based on common characteristics
3
compare
to identify similarities and differences between things or concepts
4
construct
5
describe
to write or form something not by factual recall but analogy or by using given
information
to state in words (using diagrams where appropriate) the main points of a topic
6
discuss
to give a critical account of the points involved in the topics
7
estimate
8
distinguish
to make a reasoned order magnitude statement/calculation for the quantity
concerned, making such simple assumptions as may be necessary about the points
of principle and about values of quantities not otherwise included.
to identify and understand the differences between objects, concepts and
processes
9
evaluate
to consider all factors relating to the object/event before making a judgement
10
explain
to give reasons or make some reference to theory, depending on the context
11
identify
to select and/or name the object, event, concept or process
12
infer
to draw a conclusion based on observations
13
investigate
to find out by carrying out experiments
14
list
to give a number of points or items without elaboration
15
measure
to obtain the quantity concerned directly from a suitable measuring instrument
16
outline
to give the main or essential points of the concepts or processes
17
predict
to state a likely future event based on the given information or rules
18
recognise
19
relate
to identify facts, characteristics or concepts that are critical (relevant/appropriate)
to the understanding of a situation, event, process or phenomenon
to identify and explain the relationships between objects, concepts or processes
20
show an
appreciation
show an
awareness
to recognise and explain the importance of a concept or situation
show an
understanding
state
to recall, explain and apply information
21
22
23
to show concern and perception in a particular situation or development
to give a concise answer with little or no supporting argument
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Section 7:
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
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Members of the Lower Secondary Science E/N(A) Syllabus Resource and Development Committee (2016-2020) are:
Name
Sin Kim Ho (Mr) (up to 2017)
Chua Chor Huat (Mr) (2018- 2019)
Chia Guo Hao (Mr) (up to 2017)
Chua Shi Qian (Ms) (from 2018)
Chin Tan Ying (Dr)
Paul Chua (Dr) (up to 2019)
Anna Koh (Ms)
Md Shahrin (Dr)
Lau Chor Yam (Mr)
A/P Lee Yew Jin (Dr) (up to 2017)
Ong Kia Siang (Mr) (from 2018)
Tan Mui Hua (Dr)
Yip Sun Yee (Ms) (up to 2017)
Wesley Cheong Lit Sern (Mr) (up to 2017)
Alvin Chen Jingyuan (Mr)
Tan Chiew Seng (Mr) (up to 2017)
Desmond Tan Sam Sheng (Mr)
Teo Jo Hsuan (Ms)
Chia Ai Li, Joan (Ms)
Grace Khoo (Ms) (up to 2017)
Muhammad Hafiz Mornin (Mr)
Tan Hong Kim (Dr)
Phuan Siew Khoon (Ms)
Liew Poh Yin (Mdm) (up to 2019)
Charlene Seah Xinyi (Mdm)
Wong Po San (Ms) (from 2019)
Tay Wee Beng (Ms) (from 2020)
Ang Keng Kiat (Mr) (up to 2017)
Jennifer Teo Ie Bwen (Mdm) (from 2018)
Chan Yan Qing Daphne (Mdm) (from 2019)
Terence Ong Kian Wan (Mr) (2017 to 2019)
Qiu Yiru (Ms) (up to 2018)
Designation
Divisional Director, Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Director, Sciences, Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Senior Assistant Director, Sciences, Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Senior Assistant Director, Sciences, Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Assistant Director General Science/Master Specialist, Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Principal/ Special Projects, Sciences, Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Master Teacher, Biology, Standards and Research Branch, Academy of Singapore Teachers
Master Teacher, Chemistry, Standards and Research Branch, Academy of Singapore Teachers
Master Teacher, Physics, Standards and Research Branch, Academy of Singapore Teachers
Associate Professor, Natural Sciences and Science Education, National Institute of Education Singapore
Teaching Fellow, Natural Sciences and Science Education, National Institute of Education Singapore
Curriculum Specialist, STEM Inc, Science Centre Singapore
Vice-Principal, Fuhua Secondary School
Vice-Principal, Yuan Ching Secondary School
Head of Department, Educational Technology, Ngee Ann Secondary School
Subject Head, Science, St. Patrick’s School
Level Head, Lower Secondary Science, Kuo Chuan Presbyterian Secondary School
Lower Secondary Science Coordinator, Chung Cheng High School (Main)
Lower Secondary Science Teacher, Evergreen Secondary School
Lower Secondary Science Teacher, NUS High School
Lower Secondary Science Teacher, Yishun Secondary School
Lead Curriculum Resource Development Specialist (Science) , Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Lead Specialist, Gifted Education, Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Lead Specialist (Science), Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Senior Curriculum Specialist (Lower Secondary Science), Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Senior Curriculum Specialist, Primary Science, Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Senior Curriculum Specialist, Biology, Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Senior Curriculum Planning Officer, Physics, Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Senior Curriculum Planning Officer, Lower Secondary Science, Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Senior Curriculum Planning Officer, Lower Secondary Science, Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Senior Curriculum Resource Development Officer, Lower Secondary Science, Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Education Technology Officer, Technologies for Learning Branch
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Name
Ang Xiu Qin (Ms) (from 2019)
Serwin Leong (Mr) (up to 2019)
Grace Huang (Ms) (up to 2018)
Gerlynn Yap (Ms) (2019)
Amy Lui (Ms) (from 2019)
Kee Zhiyin (Ms) (from 2019)
Miko Tan (Mdm) (2016 – 2018)
Jacklyn Kong (Mdm) (2017 - 2018)
Tong Shuqing (Ms) (from 2018)
Quek Shir Ryn (Mdm) (from 2019)
Tay Su Kian Jamie (Ms) (from 2020)
Designation
Education Technology Officer, Technologies for Learning Branch
Curriculum Planning Officer, Chemistry, Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Curriculum Planning Officer, Biology, Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Curriculum Planning Officer, Biology, Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Curriculum Planning Officer, Chemistry, Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Curriculum Planning Officer, Physics, Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Curriculum Resource Development Officer, Physics, Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Curriculum Resource Development Officer, Lower Secondary Science, Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Curriculum Resource Development Officer, Lower Secondary Science, Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Curriculum Resource Development Officer, Lower Secondary Science, Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
Curriculum Resource Development Officer, Lower Secondary Science, Curriculum Planning and Development Division 1
The Ministry of Education also wishes to acknowledge all Principals, Vice Principals, Heads of Department / Subject Heads / Level Heads, teachers and officers
for their invaluable feedback and contributions in the development of this syllabus.
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